Hummingbird Case Study: Modernising Performance with a Custom Pignose and Locking Bobstay System

When the owner-led race team approached Rigging Projects, their objective was clear: modernise the rig and improve competitiveness within their fleet. With an experienced and performance-driven owner at the helm, the team was looking for incremental gains that would translate into real race advantages. The initial introduction came via Mark Timmins of RM Rigging, who reached out to explore mast upgrade opportunities.

Phase One: Mast Upgrades

In October 2024, Rigging Projects delivered a series of targeted upgrades designed to improve reliability and performance:

• HB8 locking headboard car upgrade
• 15T bayonet X lock for the inner forestay
• 5T bullet lock for the Code Zero / A2 setup

These upgrades laid the groundwork for a longer-term collaboration.

Phase Two: Custom Pig Nose & Bobstay Lock System - A World First

As the relationship developed, the team returned with a more ambitious requirement: a pignose and locking bobstay system that would allow for quick on/off functionality, particularly useful for events in the BVI where anchoring flexibility is key.

Rigging Projects worked closely with the team to design a custom pignose and 2:1 bobstay lock system. What sets this system apart is its unique locking geometry - it requires just 2.5mm of overhoist to engage/disengage the bobstay, compared to 30 – 40mm typical in conventional systems which simply wouldn’t have worked in this application. This minimal movement is critical. It allows the team to introduce the necessary pre-tension into the bobstay cable without risking structural overload or component damage.

Supporting Upgrades Across the Boat

Alongside the Pignose system, Rigging Projects implemented several other upgrades:

• New pad eyes on side rails for the Code Zero leads
• Jib leads integrated into the deck to improve sheeting angles
• Upgraded outhaul system with new outhaul cars on the boom

Together, these changes created a more cohesive and efficient sail handling system.

Collaborative Design Approach

This project brought together a strong network of specialist partners:

• Structural engineering support from Pure Design and Engineering, who contributed to laminate design
• The owners naval architect, Vittorio Papa at Spina Studio Naval Architects was a huge part of the design process and helped drive the performance upgrades and data analysis, including the initial bowsprit geometry.
• Ongoing input from Mark Timmins of RM Rigging, acting as both rigger and owner’s representative.
• i3 Composite of Mallorca, who did the onboard installation of the RP products.

This collaborative approach ensured the final solution balanced innovation with structural integrity.

The Result: A More Versatile, Competitive Yacht

The most significant outcome was the modernisation of the sail programme through the addition of a pignose and locking bowsprit. Key benefits included:

• Increased sail projection
• Greater flexibility in sail selection, including jib tops for events like Sorrento
• The ability to have a bowsprit and still anchor the yacht

Quote from Josh Hill, Captain

Quote “We started working with RP in the summer of 2024 ahead of a 3yr mast pull. They were able to deliver the hardware on schedule and integrated seamlessly into our team to ensure the project was delivered with precision and quality. Working with RP is always a pleasure, we value our client-supplier relationships greatly in this programme. Especially when timelines are tight and quality and performance are of the utmost importance; having access to the team only a message or phone call away gives us the reassurance to keep coming back and developing the yachts hardware and running rigging. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Rigging projects and the Hummingbird Race team and would highly recommend them to any yacht looking for equipment and customer service that is industry leading.”

Quote from Mark Timmins, RM Rigging

Quote “We approached Rigging Projects for the Hummingbird project because of the wide range of hardware available and the depth of knowledge the design team brings to the table. The flexible approach to design requirements and ability to manage tight lead times through in house fabrication meant it was possible to deliver these upgrades on time and with constant revision as the project developed.”